Sports, STEM and confidence: Inside Nova Classical STEM Academy's Summer Camp

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — Before the first school bell rings this August, students at Nova Classical STEM Academy are already getting a taste of what learning will look like inside the school's brand-new campus.

The Fort Myers charter school, set to open for the first time this fall, is welcoming children to its summer camp program where athletics, STEM activities and creative projects come together to make learning fun.

The camp is open for kids going into kindergarten all the way up to those going into 7th grade.

On the field, campers stay active through soccer and basketball drills led by Coach Turner. From practicing quick footwork and dribbling through cones to taking shots on goal and competing in basketball challenges, the activities are designed to build confidence while encouraging teamwork and healthy habits, "The kids get to try out several sports. In the morning we can do soccer, handball and hockey. It's a great way to introduce sports to kids and teach them to love it." said Coach Turner.

But the camp experience goes beyond sports.

Inside the classroom, students are introduced to hands-on STEM projects similar to what they will encounter when school begins in August. Principal Sheets guides campers through activities that challenge them to think critically, solve problems and work together. Whether building structures, exploring engineering concepts or experimenting with simple robotics, students are learning by doing.

The camp also incorporates creative activities that allow students to express themselves while strengthening collaboration skills. Campers can design projects, create crafts and participate in team-building exercises that encourage both imagination and leadership.

The combination of athletics, STEM education and creativity reflects the mission of Nova Classical STEM Academy. The school plans to blend a classical education model focused on critical thinking and character development with hands-on STEM learning experiences.

Principal Matt Sheets says for many families, the summer camp serves as an introduction to the school's approach before classes officially begin, " We are the only school in the world that is blending STEM with classical learning. The summer camp is a great way for kids and families to see what we're all about."

As the first group of students prepares to walk through Nova Classical STEM Academy's doors this August, camp participants are already building friendships, gaining confidence and discovering that learning can happen just as easily on a soccer field or during a creative challenge as it can inside a classroom.

By the end of the day, students gathered for a team cheer, a simple but meaningful reminder of the community the school hopes to build when it opens its doors for the very first time this fall.

Click here to check out the camp.